Last month Bruce Willis’ family shared the heartbreaking news that the actor, 67, had been diagnosed with a condition called Frontotemporal dementia, also known as FTD.
They shared a statement that said: “Since we announced Bruce’s diagnosis of aphasia in spring 2022, Bruce’s condition has progressed and we now have a more specific diagnosis: frontotemporal dementia (known as FTD).”
”Unfortunately, challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces. While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis,” his family wrote on the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration’s website.
FTD, refers to a collection of disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. The diseases that fall under this umbrella are neurodegenerative, meaning they get worse over time.
Since then, the actor’s wife Emma Hemming Willis is doing all she can to support her husband, soaking up all the information possible about the disease.
On Tuesday, the 44-year-old shared on Instagram that she had met with renowned dementia specialist, Teepa Snow, to learn more about how to care for her husband.
“I’m grateful I had the opportunity to work with @teepasnows_pac who has helped me add to my dementia care toolbox,” she shared on social media alongside a photo with Snow.
”Head to the link in my bio as her website has a wealth of caregiving information you might find useful too.”
Snow showed her support back, and left a supportive message in the comments section of the post.
“@emmahemingwillis has done an absolutely remarkable job of providing the right support for Bruce as his abilities have changed and created a place space and life that continues to provide him with what he needs to live well,” she wrote.
“Frontal temporal dementia is never easy but with the right programming and support, it truly is possible to continue living life. Congrats to Emma and their entire family for their very very hard work and dedication. It is truly remarkable!”
Hemming Willis also took to her Instagram story today to share a sweet throwback video of her husband; “What’s this new memory thingy on IG!? OMG my biggest fan. I’m in love with him,” she wrote to her 612,000 followers paired with a clip of Bruce.
Bruce’s diagnosis comes after he retired from his acting career in 2022, after he was first diagnosed with aphasia.
